About Volume Mart

Driving on Missouri Highway 33 north of Kearney, one might not give the big red barn on the west side of the road much attention. But in that building is a business that has survived good and bad times for nearly 40 years.

Stan Betz opened Kearney TV on Washington Street in 1970. In that store he offered a variety of services with the sales and maintenance of televisions and appliances. Business was good according to Betz. So within six years they expanded and opened two more locations.

"Then came the Jimmy Carter years," Betz said. "There was a big recession, gas was being rationed and the interest rate went sky high. It was a tough time for Kearney and hurt a lot of businesses including ours."

Betz said it was time when people hit rock bottom and many businesses were forced to shut their doors.

But not Betz.

"It took a lot to help us get back on our feet," Betz said. "I believe the Lord and Kearney Trust Co. was what saved us."

"I can't say enough about how much they've helped -- by my side through it all. And because of that support we were able to restructure our business and make it what it is today."

In 1994, Betz and his wife built their current location, but it took more than 10 years for Volume Mart to make the move.

"We weren't sure that moving our business out to the country was a good idea," Betz said. "But to our surprise business has been better than ever. I think a lot of our success is due to the great employees I have."

Today, Volume Mart's business is booming. he said that despite another recession he continues to see his business grow. Betz and his four employees now do all the local warranty work for big box stores such as Wal-Mart and Best Buy and warranty work for third-party extended product warranties.

"Our business has changed a lot over the years but sticking with what we do best has really paid off," Betz said. "I'm now factory-authorized to do repairs, warranty work and other services on almost 15 brands. We also do installation for Dish and DirecTV as well as helping customers with services on converter boxes and antennas."

But it's the Betz customer service that is his true shining point.

"Gosh, I've used Stan's business for 40 years," customer Gary Shanks said. "We got our first TV from him and every one since. He's honest and won't put in parts that aren't needed and of course he's local."

"He's definitely more service after the sale which you don't find anymore. He stands behind his work -- most places don't do that anymore. I would highly recommend him."

Staff writer Carrie Alexander can be reached at 628-6010 or carriealexander@npgco.com.

To contact us CALL 816.320.3911or fill out the online form below and we will contact you.